Toros y Toreros (Plate III)
Print from a portfolio suite on paper • Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973)
Style & Movement
Late Period Modernism; Expressionistic gestural drawing
Medium & Technique
Lithograph on paper, likely after an original brush and ink or wash drawing. The technique mimics fluid gestural ink strokes and hatching.
Creation Period
Created in March 1961 (dated 6.3.61 III in the plate); Published in book/portfolio form later that year.
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10 x 14 inches (sheet size); Landscape orientation.
Subject Description
A dynamic bullfighting scene (Tauromachy) depicting a matador engaging a bull, with a picador and horse visible in the foreground. The composition uses minimalist, energetic strokes to convey movement and the high drama of the arena, a recurring theme in the artist's work.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The paper shows slight rippling (cockling) against the mount and minor discoloration typical of age.
Estimated Market Value
400 USD - 800 USD
Auction Estimate
300 USD - 600 USD
Provenance History
Likely sourced from the 'Toros y Toreros' portfolio published by Editions Cercle d'Art, Paris, 1961. No specific individual ownership history is visible, though the framing suggests a private collection.
Art Historical Significance
Bullfighting was a lifelong obsession for Picasso, representing the struggle between life and death and Spanish identity. This piece is part of a significant series that illustrates his mastery of minimalist line work to capture motion.
Notable Features
Features the printed date '6.3.61. III' in the artist's hand style, indicating it was the third drawing executed on March 6, 1961. Housed in a gilt decorative frame with a black floating mat.
Condition Issues
Visible rippling of the paper indicates it may be mounted improperly or reacting to humidity. Minor foxing or yellowing may be present at the edges hidden by the mat.
Conservation Recommendations
Remove from current acidic mount; re-frame using archival acid-free materials and UV-protective glass. Maintain in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight.